- Definition
- Definition
- Synonyms
- Example Sentences
- Word History
- Phrases Containing
- Related Articles
- Entries Near
-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
Phrases
out of wedlock
: with the natural parents not legally married to each other
Examples of wedlock in a Sentence
joined the happy couple in holy wedlock
Recent Examples on the Web
Much of the ongoing spectacle comes from the ways in which their Mormonism continually butts heads with their fairly progressive world views, from attending a burlesque show to having children out of wedlock and more.
—Katie Campione, Deadline, 26 Sep. 2024
The restoration of virtue and bodily sanctity were of paramount importance, and many felt that having a child out of wedlock would threaten those aims.
—Kali Nicole Gross / Made By History, TIME, 19 Sep. 2024
Alexander Hamilton was born out of wedlock and committed adultery.
—Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 9 Aug. 2024
In House of the Dragon lore, an affair out of wedlock would ordinarily rank as a minor indiscretion, but carries heavy emotional weight, given the relationship between Corlys and Rhaenys (Eve Best) was one based on love rather than politicking or expediency.
—Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 21 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for wedlock
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
Etymology
Middle English wedlok, from Old English wedlāc marriage bond, from wedd pledge + -lāc, suffix denoting activity
First Known Use
13th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of wedlock was
in the 13th century
Phrases Containing wedlock
Articles Related to wedlock
Dictionary Entries Near wedlock
Cite this Entry
“Wedlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wedlock. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
wedlock
noun
wed·lock
ˈwed-ˌläk
: the state of being married
More from Merriam-Webster on wedlock
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share